Men’s perception of post-marriage body image: Pakistan milieu

Abstract

The present psychological anthropological study tends to explore the perception of single men and their understanding of cultural role regarding post-marriage body between both genders. A qualitative methodology of in-depth interviews and one focus group discussion were employed. The sample included late adolescents (aged 18–24) and early adults (24–34) from Islamabad and Rawalpindi (Pakistan). Purposive sampling was applied and thematic analysis was used as a qualitative paradigm. The number of respondents comprised of 17 males of which each 7 were gym-goers. Results highlighted that Pakistani culture has its biased and paradoxical ways when it comes to expectations genders face with regard to body after marriage. Overall, males have an upper hand when it comes to body image both pre and post marriage. With the female body, men associate modesty and role of spouse and with their own body its supremacy. Expectations are not much held for men with regard to body image, but if they are looking after their body, it is all out of their own will, needs, reason and to some extent on spouse demand.

Development of Relational Turbulence Scale for Young Married Individuals

“…In addition, several gender related norms pressurize spouses in their marriage (Ali et al, 2021) that contribute to problems in understanding. In another study, it was seen that men scored high on relating body image of their spouse as a way of satisfaction in marriage and if not, it generates reasons and drives for having disturbances in marriage (Zubair & Ali, 2021). Another indigenous study showed that those couples who had arranged marriages, unsatisfactory relationship, more restrictions from husbands, and less decision making in home reported more intimidating, chaotic, and confused relationship pattern (Hamid et al, 2011).…”

“…Additionally, some other strong predictors and problems emphasized having risks of taking marriage to end point quickly were infidelity; physical, emotional, and economic abuse; substance dependency; polygamy; conflict resolution avoidance; ego of partner; birth of baby girl; unreasonable expectation from partner; lack of communication; extended family issues; dowry related violence; taunts; and husband's lack of investment (Ali et al, 2021). In another study, it was found that man's perception about his wife post marriage body image also adds to a significant contributing factor in marital journey (Zubair & Ali, 2021).…”